Special award presented to Mayo woman at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann

Mayo woman Deirdre Collis has been presented with a special award by the Minister for Arts and Tourism, Catherine Martin.

Deirdre, from Culleens, Ballina, a member of the Moy Valley branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, received the prestigious Comhaltas Bardic Award at a gala function in Wexford at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, with Dr. Labhrás Ó Murchú, Árd Stiuthóir, and Attracta Brady, Uachtaráin, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, both in attendance.

The Bardic Award, presented by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann annually, recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Irish traditional music and culture.

Deirdre, a native of Collooney in Co. Sligo, comes from a musical family renowned in traditional music circles throughout the country. Her talent became evident at an early age as she performed at Fleadhanna and Feiseanna with her father, Tom, and her sisters, Patricia and Fionnuala.

Her distinctive traditional style earned her All-Ireland titles at all levels on three different instruments: the button accordion, flute and tin whistle.

Deirdre played a pivotal role in the success of the All-Ireland Fleadh in Ballina in 1997 and 1998, while her significant contribution to the Connacht Fleadh in Ballina last year also ensured its outstanding success.

Both Deirdre and her husband, Sylvie Golden, are highly regarded musicians and steadfast supporters of local cultural events across Mayo and beyond.